CAPACS accreditation standards are based on learning outcomes and seek to integrate sociological theory, knowledge, methods, skills and professional orientation and ethics. In addition, students must have a meaningful practice experience, such as an internship. These requirements are designed to strengthen programs and improve career preparation for students.

Accreditation is a type of periodic program review. An accredited program should have adequate administrative structures and resources to support teaching, research and experiential learning for students. Accreditation helps to ensure that programs are adequately funded and staffed.

The accreditation process is based upon a program self study and site visit. The Commission has published the documents Standards for Programs in Applied and Clinical Sociology and Guidelines for Completing the Self Study Report to assist programs seeking accreditation.